Marie Maynard Daly was an American biochemist, recognized as the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry in the United States. She completed her doctorate at Columbia University in 1947, where her research focused on the chemistry of the human body, particularly the relationship between cholesterol and heart health. Throughout her career, Daly contributed significantly to the understanding of how diet affects health, especially in relation to cardiovascular disease. She also worked to promote diversity in the sciences, mentoring young scientists and advocating for increased representation of minorities in scientific fields.